No comparison

I WAS astonished by Reed Johnson’s oddly misguided review of “The Producers” (“ ‘Producers’ Who Work Too Hard,” May 30). His impressions were so steeped in comparison, it seemed he was more intent on reviewing his own expectations. Comparing Jason Alexander to Nathan Lane (who he admitted never seeing), comparing this L.A. production to the Ahmanson’s “Rent,” comparing Mel Brooks to Monty Python, and, of course, the theatrical adaptation to the 35-year-old film.

God forbid we should experience the joy of this stage production as a work unto itself.

Mark Von der Heide

Los Angeles

I have never laughed so hard and so many times at a theatrical production and can honestly say that “The Producers” is worth every penny that is paid to see it.

Comparing it with the film version and the actors on stage to actors on the screen begs one to compare Mr. Johnson to ... a real theater critic.

Brian Mann

Cypress

*

I put Reed Johnson’s review of “The Producers” aside, which ran the day I went to see the show, not wanting to spoil a greatly anticipated experience by what sounded like sour grapes.

My apologies, Mr. J.: You were mostly correct.

Yes, I was pleasantly surprised by Jason Alexander’s and Martin Short’s fine vocal equipment and dancing feet, and totally taken by Gary Beach’s flawless and disciplined performance that ought to be up in lights on any marquee.

But ... overall, the show looked like a tryout production before heading for Broadway, not a carbon copy of the big Tony winner I too was unable to see. I got quickly tired of Short’s floor exercises and Alexander’s four-feet-in-the-air, behind-the-couch demonstration of his fund-raising techniques. A little less shtick and tighter exposition would have made for a more professionally polished and thus more enjoyable show.

I often go back for a second, even third look if I truly enjoy a show. But blow another couple of hundred bucks on this one? Not.

Ruth Weddle

West Hills